Successful pitch brings international congress to Rotorua

25 Nov 2011

The 6th Asia Pacific Occupational Therapy Congress (APOTC) in 2015 will be held in Rotorua, thanks to a collaborative pitch effort by Tourism New Zealand, the Rotorua Convention Bureau, and the New Zealand Association of Occupational Therapists.

The success marks the first time the event has been held in a Pacific nation and the first successful bid for Rotorua using the Conference Assistance Programme (CAP).

It is also the second successful bid to come out of the CAP since Tourism New Zealand assumed management of the programme in July 2011.

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Kevin Bowler says this is a fantastic start for the dedicated Business Events team who joined the bid presentation in Thailand.

"Our involvement in this sector is part of Tourism New Zealand's strategic objective to increase the number of high-value visitors and encourage them to stay longer.

"We know that international delegates can spend up-to three times more per day, than the average international visitor.

"The success of the bid is a reflection of the strength of the New Zealand 100% Pure experience on offer in Rotorua and all it can offer the international visitor."

Rotorua Convention Bureau Manager Denise Siviter says the competitive bid was certainly a challenge, given the strength of the competition.

"Other Asian nations were in strong positions due to their proximity and affordability for Asian delegates," says Denise. "However, our efforts in destination marketing paid off.

"We were able to highlight the ease of access through increased international airline capacity into Auckland and Rotorua, and emphasised how coming to Rotorua will result in a truly unique experience for delegates.

"They will get to enjoy our beautiful forests and lakes, and the inspiring cultural and geothermal activities available."